The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) published the final regulations requiring Canadian broadcasters and broadcasting distributors to control the loudness of TV commercials by September 1, 2012. In December 2011, the CRTC published draft regulations for comment after responding to Canadians’ concern that commercial advertisements were too loud.

“The rules we published bring us a step closer to our goal of eliminating loud TV ads,” said Leonard Katz, Acting Chairman of the CRTC. “We have every expectation that the industry will take the necessary steps to meet our deadline and provide relief to viewers.”

The regulations require Canadian broadcasters to adhere to the Advanced Television Systems Committee’s (ATSC) standard for measuring and controlling television signals. Adherence to this standard will minimize fluctuations in loudness between programming and commercials. The ATSC is an internationally recognized body that sets technical standards for digital television.

Broadcasters are also responsible for maintaining the volume of programs. They must follow these rules and ensure that both programs and ads are transmitted at the same volume by no later than September 1, 2012.